Understanding the UV Index and How It Protects Your Health

What is the UV index and why is it a helpful measure?

If you have ever walked outside, thought it seemed hot, and decided to check a weather app,

you might have noticed a section called the UV index. It may have been accompanied by a tiny

sun symbol, a slider of color, and most importantly, a number. This number represents your

expected risk of overexposure to the sun at that current moment and is something that shouldn’t

be taken lightly.

How do you interpret the index?

The UV index is a scale that ranges from 1 to 11+, as shown in the picture below, representing

the strength of UV rays. It can be found in weather apps or online, and is based on your current

location and environmental factors such as elevation, weather conditions, and cloud coverage. It

is also based on the current time.

Within the scale, 1 stands for a low risk, while 11+ stands for an extremely high risk of exposure

if you were to go out in the sun unprotected. When you go out unprotected with the UV at 11+,

it's possible to burn within just a few minutes. The UV index is usually at its highest between 10

am and 4 pm, but it is always a good idea to check an app because the index is a very

important tool that anyone can use to keep their skin and eyes as safe and healthy as possible.

What should you do?

While an index of 1 may seem like you don’t need any protection, you should always wear

sunscreen on your face whenever going out. When the sun gets higher in the sky and the index

goes up, it is best to add more layers of protection, such as a hat, a long-sleeved shirt,

sunglasses, and/or full-body sunscreen. On the higher ends of the index, you should also try to

stay inside as much as possible to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer and other

UV-induced symptoms.

Even if it's cool and cloudy outside, there’s a very high chance lots of UV rays are getting in.

This is why it’s important to always check a weather app before going outside, as the UV index

can save your life. As always, enjoy your fun in the sun! (with protection of course)